This cloud-based POS system has a free plan option, although if you want more features, the paid plan is ideal. Alongside processing payments and managing sales, Vend features different offers for different businesses, such as retailers and restaurants. For larger businesses, Vend is ideal if you want to switch POS providers as the software can work with existing credit card readers, printers and scanners, so equipment doesn’t need to be replaced.

The benefit of Shopify is that no long-term contract is needed, and the only fees are the swipe fee, meaning there are no hidden charges. Supporting unlimited items and variations (perfect if you have a large volume of inventory items), it can be used for both e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail stores. It can integrate the inventory of a retail store with its online shop, making stock easy to track. Additionally, all payment types can be processed, from cards and cash to cheques and gift cards. The only downside is that Shopify offers few tools for managing employees, but with its cheap pricing and no need for committal, it’s the perfect option for small businesses.

Perhaps the most well-known POS system of them all; PayPal doesn’t charge any monthly service or support fees, nor does it require a long-term contract. The only disadvantage is businesses may need to work with one of PayPal’s pre-integrated partners to use any of the advanced POS features offered. Nevertheless, it is a good cost-effective option, as the predictable pricing means there are no hidden fees. PayPal has recently offered an in-store POS option, processing payments using a mobile iOS, Android device or iPad. A lot of companies that have changed to other systems promising lower rates have switched back to PayPal once they’ve realised that competitors’ hidden fees have far surpassed the swipe fees.

Are you looking for help in setting up a POS system for your business? Whether in-store, online or both, we’re here to help. We’ve worked with many of the UK’s leading retailers, and we’d love to help you too. Simply drop us a line at hello@photolink.co.uk and we’ll be in touch.